Major new Hastings cycling and walking route up for decision

On Wednesday (May 20), East Sussex County Council’s lead member for transport and environment Clare Dowling is set to consider proposals to move ahead with the Hastings Western Pedestrian and Cycle scheme.

The project, which was the subject of a public consultation last year, aims to create a shared walking and cycling route between Silverhill and the Combe Valley Greenway.

In a report to be considered at the meeting, a council officer said: “The results of the public consultation show there is support for the proposed measures. 

“Whilst there is concern about the safety of introducing shared route facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, evidence from other schemes introduced in the county do demonstrate these facilities can operate safely.

“The proposed shared pedestrian and cycle route aligns with the Walking and Cycling Strategy for Hastings adopted by the county council in 2014 and will improve pedestrian and cycle connectivity in the western part of the Hastings area, between Sedlescombe Road and Bodiam Drive/Queensway.

“The lead member is therefore recommended to note the outcomes of the consultation and agree that the scheme be taken forward to detailed design  with construction following in 2021/22, subject to any delivery risks and delays arising from the current covid-19 pandemic.”

The proposed route (see image) is intended to make it easier for residents to walk (or cycle) between several well-used facilities in the town, reducing the numbers of cars making the journey.

These include the local Asda and Tesco retail superstores as well as industrial estates, schools, libraries, community centres and recreational spaces.

The scheme is also likely to  see improvements made to existing pedestrian crossing points along Ironlatch Avenue and at the Marline Road\Wishing Tree Road junction. 

The proposals sit as part of the county council’s climate change strategy, as it would be hoped to reduce the number of car journeys residents need to make. 

If approved the scheme will move forward to the detailed design stage, due to be completed later this year. Construction would then be likely begin in 2021/22, although would be subject to further approval.

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